Ex Machina (2014)
Everything a Black Mirror episode strives for.
Presentation:
The film looks wonderful and modern. Oscar Isaac never disappoints and Alicia Vikander cleverly navigates her character. One of the more memorable AI films for its sleek presentation and tone. Such a small cast, but so perfectly executed.
Story:
We view the story through Domhall Gleeson's eyes, whom provides the moral tone of the film. Unfortunately some of the characters motives fall apart necessarily so to propel the conflict, which ends up feeling forced. It simply comes down to would a real person do this, and the answers are generally, no. The dance scene is one of the most awesome moments in a hot minute.
Conclusion:
Although the take on AI robotics is quite cliche and overdone, this was a powerful entry that leads the way for what would become a common trope that Black Mirror fans love. It truly does have the same tone, but presented in a much higher quality form. Now time to tear up that dance floor.
Recommendations
Space and humanity, the final frontiers.